What is Terramation or Human Composting?
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Terramation, also known as human composting or natural organic reduction, is a gentle and more natural way to celebrate the life of a loved one. With this process, human remains are transformed into life-giving soil, offering meaningful family alternative burial or cremation of the remains.
Terramation is an extension that allows decomposition to occur naturally but in a controlled environment, speeding up this process. The resulting soil can be used in gardens, forests, or areas needing revitalization.
Terramation prevents the chemicals from embalming and decreases carbon emissions typically produced during the cremation process. Fewer resources are expended than traditional burial. It is a compassionate choice for loved ones and the earth.
How Does the Terramation Process Work?
1. A Meaningful Farewell
The process can begin with an optional laying-in ceremony, where families can gather and say goodbye to their loved ones in a way that is most meaningful for them. During this time, the body is placed in a terramation vessel containing straw, alfalfa, and sawdust. Families are encouraged to personalize the ceremony by adding flowers, letters, or other mementos to celebrate their loved one’s life.
2. A Gentle Transformation
For 30 to 40 days, the terramation vessel creates the ideal environment for the transformation into soil. With immense care and attention, the body is gently transformed into nutrient-rich soil. This phase is closely monitored to ensure the environment remains balanced, allowing the transformation to occur smoothly and gently.
3. Resting and Stabilizing
Once the transformation into soil is complete, it is screened to remove non-organic materials and rests for 30 days. This ensures the soil is stable and ready to be returned to the family.
4. Returning the Soil
At the end of the process, families get back approximately one cubic yard of soil (more specifically, compost). This soil can be used in almost any way cremated remains can be, and so much more—creating a memorial garden, planting a tree, or helping land in need of revitalization. Families can choose to take any amount of the soil they wish and can donate a portion or all of the soil as they see fit.
Why Choose Terramation?
A Sustainable Alternative
Terramation is a much more sustainable alternative to traditional burial and cremation. It avoids embalming chemicals, caskets, and the significant energy required for cremation. The process gives back to the earth in a meaningful and lasting way.
A Personal Tribute
Terramation offers families a profoundly personal experience, from the laying-in ceremony to the choice of how the soil is used and the ability to visit throughout the process. Every step allows for thoughtful reflection and the creation of a unique legacy.
Supporting New Life
The soil created through termination can be used to promote new life in several ways. Whether it nurtures a garden, helps reforestation efforts, or is spread in an area most meaningful to the family and their loved one, it represents the continuation of life, renewal, and memorialization.
Frequently Asked Questions About Terramation
What happens during terramation?
Terramation is a carefully designed process that transforms the body into life-giving soil (technically nutrient-rich compost). Organic materials like straw, alfalfa, and sawdust create the right conditions for this transformation.
How is terramation sustainable compared to cremation or burial?
Terramation is more environmentally friendly than burial and cremation because it avoids the chemicals, energy use, and long-term land requirements of burial and cremation.
How much soil is produced?
The process produces about one cubic yard of soil. Families can choose to keep some, share it, or donate it to land needing revitalization.
Can families participate?
Yes, families are encouraged to be involved. The optional laying-in ceremony can include personal touches that celebrate the life of their loved one.
Is terramation available everywhere?
Terramation is currently legal in a growing number of states and is accessible to families across the U.S. Licensed facilities can receive and care for the body, transporting it from anywhere in the country to a state where the process is legally conducted.
Can I preplan for terramation?
Absolutely. Preplanning is a thoughtful way to ensure your wishes are honored and provides peace of mind for your family.
Is Terramation Right for You?
Terramation is a thoughtful choice for families who value sustainability, renewal, and creating a meaningful legacy. It offers a way to honor loved ones while avoiding the unsustainable aspects of burial and cremation.